Leaving the emerald rice terraces of Ubud for the rugged limestone cliffs of Nusa Penida is a transition from Bali's spiritual heart to its wild, untamed frontier. While Ubud offers tranquility among the trees, Nusa Penida rewards the adventurous with iconic views like Kelingking Beach and the chance to swim with manta rays. Because Ubud is landlocked in the central highlands, this journey requires a two-stage approach: a drive south to the coast followed by a boat crossing over the Badung Strait.
The logistics can seem daunting given Bali's unpredictable traffic and the variety of ports available, but the route is well-traveled and efficient. Most travelers opt for a combined ticket that handles both the land transfer and the sea crossing, ensuring a seamless transition from your hotel doorstep to the island pier. You can easily compare these integrated options and book your tickets on GoAsia.cc to avoid the morning rush at the harbor.
Ubud to Nusa Penida by Van
The most popular and convenient way to reach the island is by booking a van and boat combination. This service typically includes a pickup from a designated meeting point or hotel in Ubud, a drive to the Sanur or Kusamba harbor, and a ticket for the boat crossing. Prices for these combined services range from $13 to $30, depending on the operator and the type of boat used for the final leg.
Van and Ferry Combinations
This is the standard choice for many travelers. The total journey time usually falls between 2 hours and 3 hours and 15 minutes. The land portion takes you through the bustling streets of Gianyar or Denpasar before arriving at the coast. Once at the harbor, you will board a ferry or fast boat. These vessels are designed for the short hop across the strait, offering indoor seating and sometimes a rooftop deck for those who want to feel the sea breeze. Prices for the Van + Ferry class range from $13 to $27.
Van and Speedboat or Fast Boat
If you are looking for a slightly more direct connection, speedboats and fast boats are the primary vessels used for this route. These boats are smaller and faster than traditional ferries, cutting through the waves to get you to Nusa Penida quickly. The Van + Speedboat option is priced around $13 to $27, while the Van + Fast Boat service can range up to $30. These services are particularly frequent in the mornings, allowing you to reach the island early enough to start exploring before the midday sun peaks.
Ubud to Nusa Penida by Ferry
For those who prefer to arrange their own transport to the harbor or are already staying near the coast, direct ferry tickets are available. These tickets cover the maritime portion of the trip, departing from various ports like Sanur or Padang Bai. The ferry crossing itself takes between 2 hours and 45 minutes to 3 hours and 15 minutes. Prices for a ferry-only ticket are consistently affordable, ranging from $13 to $17.
Traveling by ferry is a great way to see the Bali coastline from a different perspective. As you leave the main island, you can often see the towering peaks of Mount Agung in the distance. The boats arrive at different points on Nusa Penida, such as Toya Pakeh or Buyuk Harbour, so it is worth checking which port is closest to your island accommodation before boarding.
Comparing Your Options
| Mode | Price (USD) | Duration | Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|
| Van + Ferry / Speedboat | $13 - $30 | 2h - 3h 15m | High (Door-to-pier) |
| Ferry (Boat Only) | $13 - $17 | 2h 45m - 3h 15m | Standard |
Tips for Traveling from Ubud to Nusa Penida
- Prepare for Wet Feet: Many boats at Sanur Harbor do not use a pier. You may need to wade through knee-deep water to board, so wear shorts and sandals or flip-flops.
- Book the Morning Trip: The sea in the Badung Strait is generally calmer in the morning. Afternoon crossings can sometimes be choppier, which might be uncomfortable for those prone to seasickness.
- Luggage Considerations: While staff usually help carry large bags onto the boat, try to pack light. Navigating sandy beaches and small boat decks is much easier with a backpack than a heavy suitcase.
- Arrival Ports: Nusa Penida has several harbors. Confirm whether your boat arrives at Banjar Nyuh, Toya Pakeh, or Buyuk, as this will affect your transport costs once you land on the island.
- Sun Protection: The sun on the open water is intense. Even if you are sitting inside the cabin, the reflection off the water can cause sunburn. Apply sunscreen before you board.
Timetable
| Ferry Ubud - Nusa Penida $ 12.84–16.41 2h 45m – 3h 15m | |
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| Van Ubud - Nusa Penida $ 12.55–26.75 2h – 3h 15m | |
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| Van Bali - Nusa Penida $ 24.97–29.25 2h 30m – 3h | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
You can book train, bus, flight, taxi, van, and ferry tickets from Ubud to Nusa Penida directly on GoAsia.cc. Use the booking tool on this page to compare all available options and prices in real time.
The cheapest way to travel is by a combined van and ferry service, with prices starting as low as $13. These budget-friendly options provide a cost-effective way to handle both the land and sea portions of the trip.
The fastest way to reach the island is by a van and speedboat combination, which can take as little as 2 hours. This includes the drive from Ubud to the harbor and the quick crossing over the strait.
The total travel time typically ranges from 2 hours to 3 hours and 15 minutes. This duration depends on the traffic conditions in Bali and the type of boat used for the crossing.
Yes, it is highly recommended to book in advance, especially during the peak dry season. Booking ahead ensures you get a seat on your preferred departure time and often saves you from the higher prices charged by last-minute street vendors.
Wear comfortable, waterproof footwear like flip-flops, as you will likely have to walk through water to board the boat. Light, breathable clothing is best for the tropical heat, and a light jacket can be useful if the boat's air conditioning is strong.
There is a moderate amount of walking, mainly between the van drop-off point and the boat. At the harbor, you may need to walk across sand or uneven surfaces, so be prepared if you are carrying heavy luggage.